Laundry machine add-on box for detergent dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laundry machines require manual detergent dispensing, leading to safety, aesthetic, and hygiene issues in commercial laundromats, and existing solutions for automatic dispensing are either complex, costly, or difficult to install.
Innovation Solution
A portable, all-in-one detergent dispensing add-on box with tubing, mechanical structures, pumps, and a timer circuit that automatically dispenses detergent when the laundry machine is turned on, allowing for easy installation and adjustable detergent amounts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If manual detergent dispensing is used, then users can control detergent amount, but safety, aesthetic, and hygiene problems occur in commercial laundromats
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent dispensing system operates automatically without requiring user intervention. The pump system dispenses detergent based on pre-set parameters when the washing machine is activated, eliminating manual handling and associated safety and hygiene issues in commercial laundromats
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical action of pouring detergent is replaced with an automated pump system controlled by electronic circuits and timers, substituting human operation with an automated electromechanical system that eliminates safety and hygiene concerns
2Extent of automation
If built-in detergent dispensing apparatus is installed in laundry machines, then automatic dispensing is achieved, but device complexity and installation cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent dispensing function is separated from the washing machine and implemented as an external add-on box that can be independently installed and managed, simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing integration complexity
Solution Approach 2:
An external detergent box serves as an intermediary device between the user and the washing machine, providing automatic dispensing functionality without requiring complex integration into the machine's internal structure, thereby reducing device complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If portable detergent containers are used by hotel guests, then they can bring their own detergent, but they cannot consume a whole bottle and waste occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system dispenses only the partial amount of detergent needed for each washing cycle rather than requiring users to use entire bottles. The pump system precisely controls detergent delivery to match actual consumption needs, eliminating waste from unused detergent
Solution Approach 2:
The detergent dispensing system allows dynamic adjustment of dispensing parameters such as amount and timing. This enables precise control over detergent usage to match actual washing needs, preventing both over-dispensing and waste while maintaining versatility for different washing scenarios
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a simple, safe, and cost-effective automatic detergent dispensing system that reduces manual handling, minimizes waste, and improves hygiene and aesthetics in commercial laundromats.
Implementation Method 1
a set of pumps for pumping the detergents directly into the laundry machine or into a dispensing cup
Implementation Method 2
a timer circuit for controlling the pumping time
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry machine add-on box for automatic dispensing detergent. The add-on box contains a dispensing mechanical assembly and an electric pumping assembly and controller that is connected to the electronic control panel of the laundry machine.